In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, an image synchronization device includes a light emitting source configured to emit light at intervals of a predetermined time, a sampling phase calibration circuit configured to calibrate a sampling phase of each of the first image sensor and the second image sensor on the basis of a light emitting timing of the light emitting source and a delay calibration circuit configured to generate delay information on the basis of a result of comparison between first image information transmitted from the first image sensor and second image information transmitted from the second image sensor.
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2. The image synchronization device according to claim 1, wherein the sampling phase calibration circuit synchronizes the sampling phase of each of the first image sensor and the second image sensor with a light emitting phase of the light emitting source.
4. The image synchronization device according to claim 3, wherein the sampling phase information generation circuit sequentially increases or decreases the respective sampling phases.
This invention relates to image synchronization devices used in imaging systems, particularly for adjusting sampling phases to improve image quality. The problem addressed is the need to dynamically adjust sampling phases in image sensors to correct for timing mismatches, reduce artifacts, and enhance synchronization between multiple image sensors or between an image sensor and a display. The device includes a sampling phase information generation circuit that generates phase information for controlling the timing of image sampling. The circuit sequentially adjusts the sampling phases, either increasing or decreasing them in a controlled manner. This allows for fine-tuning of the sampling timing to compensate for variations in signal propagation delays, sensor misalignment, or other timing discrepancies. The sequential adjustment ensures smooth transitions between phases, preventing abrupt changes that could introduce visual distortions. The invention may be used in systems requiring precise synchronization, such as multi-camera arrays, 3D imaging, or high-speed imaging applications. By dynamically adjusting sampling phases, the device helps maintain consistent image quality and reduces synchronization errors. The sequential phase adjustment method ensures stability and avoids abrupt phase shifts that could degrade performance. This approach is particularly useful in environments where environmental factors or manufacturing tolerances introduce timing variations.
6. The image synchronization device according to claim 5, wherein the sampling period of the first image sensor is identical to the sampling period of the second image sensor.
7. The image synchronization device according to claim 5, wherein the light emitting period calibration circuit calibrates the light emitting period of the light emitting source to be 2N times (N being a natural number) a sampling period of each of the first image sensor and the second image sensor.
This invention relates to image synchronization devices used in systems requiring precise timing between multiple image sensors. The problem addressed is ensuring accurate synchronization of image capture between two or more sensors, particularly in applications where timing discrepancies can lead to misalignment or artifacts in the final output. The device includes a light emitting source and a calibration circuit that adjusts the light emitting period of the source to match the sampling periods of the image sensors. Specifically, the calibration circuit sets the light emitting period to be 2N times (where N is a natural number) the sampling period of each sensor. This ensures that the light pulses align with the sensor sampling intervals, reducing timing errors and improving synchronization. The calibration circuit may also include a phase detection circuit to compare the phase of the light emitting source with the sampling signals of the sensors. A control circuit then adjusts the light emitting period based on this comparison to maintain synchronization. The device may further include a synchronization signal generator that provides a reference signal to both the light emitting source and the image sensors, ensuring consistent timing across the system. This approach is particularly useful in applications such as 3D imaging, where precise synchronization between multiple sensors is critical for accurate depth perception and image reconstruction. By calibrating the light emitting period to a multiple of the sensor sampling periods, the device minimizes timing discrepancies and enhances overall system performance.
9. The image synchronization device according to claim 8, wherein the decision circuit generates a sampling period calibration continuation signal on the basis of the delay information.
10. The image synchronization device according to claim 8, wherein the light emitting period calibration circuit calibrates the light emitting period of the light emitting source to be different from a previous light emitting period on the basis of the sampling period calibration continuation signal.
This invention relates to image synchronization devices used in imaging systems, particularly for calibrating the light emitting period of a light emitting source to improve synchronization accuracy. The problem addressed is ensuring precise timing control of light emission to avoid interference and improve image quality in systems where multiple light sources or sensors operate in close proximity. The device includes a light emitting source and a light emitting period calibration circuit. The calibration circuit adjusts the light emitting period of the source to be different from a previous light emitting period based on a sampling period calibration continuation signal. This signal indicates whether further calibration is needed, allowing dynamic adjustment of the light emission timing to prevent conflicts with other devices or environmental factors. The calibration process ensures that the light emitting period is optimized for the current operating conditions, enhancing synchronization and reducing errors in image capture. The calibration circuit may also include a sampling period calibration circuit that generates the sampling period calibration continuation signal based on a comparison between a reference signal and a feedback signal from the light emitting source. This feedback loop enables real-time adjustments, ensuring consistent performance. The device may further include a light emitting period control circuit that controls the light emitting period based on the calibration results, providing precise timing control. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring high-precision synchronization, such as medical imaging, industrial inspection, or multi-camera systems, where accurate timing is critical for reliable operation.
11. The image synchronization device according to claim 10, wherein the light emitting period calibration circuit calibrates the light emitting period of the light emitting source to be double that of the previous light emitting period.
12. The image synchronization device according to claim 8, wherein the delay information detection circuit calibrates a delay of the first light emitting period information and a delay of the second light emitting period information on the basis of the delay information.
15. The image synchronization device according to claim 1, wherein the sampling period calibration circuit calibrates the sampling period of each of the first image sensor and the second image sensor to be ½N times (N being a natural number) the light emitting period of the light emitting source.
21. The image information generation apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the delay information detection circuit calibrates a delay of the first light emitting period information and a delay of the second light emitting period information on the basis of the delay information.
This invention relates to an image information generation apparatus designed to improve the accuracy of light emission timing in imaging systems, particularly those using structured light or time-of-flight (ToF) techniques. The apparatus addresses the problem of timing misalignment between light emission periods, which can degrade depth sensing accuracy or image quality. The apparatus includes a delay information detection circuit that measures and compensates for delays in the timing of light emission periods. Specifically, it calibrates delays in the first and second light emitting period information based on detected delay information. This ensures synchronized light emission, which is critical for accurate distance measurements or 3D reconstruction in applications like LiDAR, depth cameras, or structured light systems. The delay information detection circuit may use reference signals or feedback from light sensors to determine timing offsets. By adjusting the light emission periods accordingly, the apparatus mitigates errors caused by signal propagation delays, component variations, or environmental factors. This calibration process enhances the precision of time-based imaging techniques, leading to more reliable depth data or higher-quality images. The invention is particularly useful in systems where multiple light sources or detectors are involved, as it ensures consistent timing across all components. This improves overall system performance in applications requiring high-precision distance measurements or real-time 3D imaging.
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June 14, 2018
October 25, 2022
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